However the former Roma winger, who joined Tottenham for a club-record £30 million in 2013, is another option being considered by the Milan giants, and Jose Lamela confirmed that the Nerazurri have been in touch with Tottenham over what is expected to be a loan deal.

“I can confirm that we are in talks with the Nerazzurri,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “Their interest in Erik is real. We are waiting for updates over these next few days. There is a willingness on our part to begin talks with the club.

“Italian football is likely more suited to him and his characteristics. He settled well in Italy and had two great seasons with Roma. It would be a welcome option for us.

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“He would like to return to Serie A. We will see what happens in these final days of the transfer window.”

The 23-year-old has struggled to settle at White Hart Lane, managing just six goals in 62 appearances at the club. He was withdrawn for 19-year-old Delle Alli in Tottenham's visit to Leicester on Saturday having created little of note.

Should Lamela leave Tottenham the club would be left with only Christian Eriksen and Nacer Chadli from the seven players they bought after selling Gareth Bale to Real Madrid.